Governance and Human Rights Advocate Undule Mwakasungula says the resumption of direct aid by the European Union (EU) to the Government of Malawi demonstrates a clear message by the development partners about the legitimacy and stability of the Dr President Lazarus Chakwera’s government.
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Mwakasungula, who was responding to the EU’s allocation of €55 million, with €50 million directed towards budgetary support over a 30-month period to Malawi, said the assistance tells of the EU’s trust in Malawi’s governance reforms, financial accountability, and the administration’s focus on sectoral improvement.
“The resumption of budgetary support from the European Union to Malawi marks an important chapter in the relationship between Malawi and the international donor community. This decision, made after a decade-long pause, is indeed a strong vote of confidence in the current government and its leadership. The allocation of €55 million, with €50 million directed towards budgetary support over a 30-month period, shows the EU’s trust in Malawi’s governance reforms, financial accountability, and the administration’s focus on sectoral improvement.
“It signals that the reforms and governance measures instituted in recent years are starting to bear fruit, particularly in terms of restoring credibility with international partners. The EU’s support, combined with targeted investments in education, also reflects the broader success of Malawi’s Public Financial Management framework, which aims to promote transparency, accountability, and the efficient use of resources,” he said in a statement released on Wednesday afternoon.
Mwakasungula added that the resumption of support goes beyond mere financial assistance, stressing that it represents renewed legitimacy on the global stage and solidifies the perception of Malawi as a trustworthy and competent partner in development.
He said the focus on secondary education will further ensure that the country invests in its human capital, which is a critical factor in long-term national development and poverty reduction. In focusing on the education sector and public financial management, the EU is not only addressing an immediate need but also contributing to sustainable growth.
“However, maintaining and expanding this confidence requires continued diligence on the part of the government. The administration must ensure that these funds are managed with the utmost transparency and that the financial systems in place remain solids. This includes addressing any loopholes in procurement, avoiding corruption, and ensuring that every kwacha is spent with accountability and in line with public priorities.
“For Malawi to continue gaining donor confidence, the government must also deepen its commitment to reforms that enhance governance, reduce corruption, and increase public sector efficiency. The international community will of course be watching closely to see how the funds are managed, and any missteps could jeopardize future support. Similarly, the people of Malawi will also be closely observing the impact of this support on their lives,” said the revered human rights defender.
“The resumption of this EU budget support, particularly at a time of global financial constraints, also tells the importance of maintaining a positive diplomatic relationship with the international community. This moment is not just about funds but about rebuilding Malawi’s reputation as a nation committed to transparency, good governance, and development-oriented leadership,” he concluded his statement.
